Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
Butternut Squash Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, sweet butternut squash, and a warming blend of spices. This dish offers a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and savory protein, making it a comforting meal suitable for any season.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup black beans or kidney beans (optional), rinsed and drained
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano, stirring for about a minute to toast the spices. Pour in diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Simmer with Butternut Squash and Broth: Add the cubed butternut squash and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the squash is tender and flavors have melded together.
- Season and Finish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If using beans, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Toasting spices in the pot enhances flavor by releasing essential oils.
- Simmer gently on low heat to meld flavors and keep the chicken tender.
- Allow the chili to rest before serving to let flavors fully develop.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: butternut squash, chicken chili, hearty chili, healthy chili, autumn recipe, gluten free chili